On July 4th, Freedom Lake Park will be packed with people for Founder's Day, which is an annual celebration of America's independence and Elizabethtown's creation. But from now on, it'll also be a time to honor the man who envisioned the event.

It was an idea Mayor Tim Walker proposed after taking office in January 2011.

It is a free gathering in Freedom Lake Park to commemorate the birthday of the city he loved and served for years.

Walker only got to see that vision come to life once.

He died June 14 at the age of 54 from a massive heart attack.

Walker will be remembered during the Founder's Day festivities with a special dedication service at 8:30 p.m.

It will include a moment of silence and plaque presentation to Walker's family members.

Councilman Marty Fulkerson calls the two council meetings since Walker's death, extremely hard.

The two weren't just colleagues, but friends, with Walker encouraging him to run 13 years ago.

“My seat was located right next to his seat on the council so it was difficult. I guess the thing that kind of got us through it is Tim's desire to keep the city moving forward,” said Fulkerson.

Fulkerson says the council is close to choosing a new mayor.

Members decided to fill the position from within.

Edna Berger, Tony Bishop and Bill Bennet all said they're up to the task.

A vote should occur at the next meeting.

That person's council seat will likely be filled by the first runner-up in the last election.

Founders' Day officially starts at 5 p.m. at Freedom Lake Park with a kids fun run, mini water park, pie-eating contest and a concert from the 100th Army Band.